Shangri-La Cycling Tour - 9 Days

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Kunming - Dali - Lijiang - Shangri-La - Kunming

This is a deep exploration into Yunnan province, southwest China. During 9 days, you may discover the colorful ethnic culture, ride a bike travelling through old city towns and small villages, and enjoy the stunning beauty of the snow mountain and crystal waters.

Day 2 Kunming

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

In the morning, enjoy an excursion to the Stone Forest National Geological Park (UNESCO), approximately 85 km from the city of Kunming, which is a notable set of Karst landscape formed some 270 million years ago. This geological wonder consists of limestone cliffs and peaks that have weathered into various shapes since their formation beneath the sea. In the afternoon, drive back to Kunming and wander the Flower and Bird Market.

Day 3 Kunming - Dali (by air)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

In the morning, transfer to the airport and fly to Dali. Dali City is located on a fertile plateau nestled between the Cangshan Mountains to the west, and Erhai Lake to the east, which was traditionally settled by the Bai ethnic group.

Upon arrival, visit the famous Three Pagodas, the precious treasure and main landmark in Dali.
Shortly after, take on a walking tour of the Dali Old Town to capture its charm with narrow cobbled streets and traditional stone architecture. The rest of the day is free for exploring and relaxing.

Day 5 Dali - Lijiang (by automobile)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

In the morning, drive to the city of Lijiang. In the ancient time, Lijiang flourished as a trading post of the Silk Road of tea, known as the "Tea-Horse Ancient Road". In 1997, the UNESCO put Lijiang on a list of the world cultural heritage.

Upon arrival, visit the remarkable Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. You travel by cable car to the Yak Meadow, which commands a magnificent view of the glacier.

In the afternoon, tour the Baisha Fresco situated in the northern part of Lijiang. You will find an assortment of over 600-year old preserved murals.

Day 7 Lijiang - Shangri-La (by automobile)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Today, you embark on a scenic car ride to the Tiger Leaping Gorge. You travel along the Golden Sand River, the beginning of the mighty Yangtze. You stop for pictures for the amazing view of the spectacular First Bend of Yangtze River, cutting through several mountains, changes its directions in several 90 degree turns. You stop at the stupendous Tiger Leaping Gorge, which is believed to be the deepest gorge in the world. Following an ancient trek, enjoy a magnificent close-up view of sharp cliffs and roaring rushing water. In the later afternoon, you will take an overland ride to Shangri-La.

Day 8 Shangri-La

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

In the morning, pay a visit to Ganden Songzanlin Monastery, the largest Tibetan Buddhism monastery in Yunnan province. Built in the 17th century, during the reign of the Fifth Dalai Lama, it is often referred to as the Little Potala Palace.
Then head to Pudacuo National Park, which is notable as the first national park in China to meet International Union for Conservation of Nature standards. It incorporates the Bita Lake and the Duhu Scenic Area, which holds the stunning view of three parallel rivers and dense deciduous forests.

Day 9 Shangri-La - Kunming (by air)

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